Effects

Reduces stress and promotes relaxation by activating the parasympathetic nervous system, the part of the nervous system in charge of the ‘rest and digest’ response.

Decreases pain by increasing blood circulation and stimulating the release of endorphins and other pain reducing neurochemicals, thus decreasing the use of analgesics and improving sleep patterns, by relieving muscular spasms and promoting the rapid disposal of waste products.

Reduces the levels of stress hormones (adrenaline)and increases the levels of dopamine (linked to decreased stress and reduce depression) and serotonin (believed to inhibit the transmit ion of noxious signal s to the brain, therefore reducing pain).

Reduces feelings of depression.

EEG (electro-encephalogram) tests have confirmed that massage increases the alpha and delta brain waves, which promotes relaxation and better sleep.